Horsetail

Horsetail ((Equisetum arvense) is up and abundant! It is such an exciting plant to see in the wild. It is exceptionally nutritious, being rich in potassium, magnesium, and iron, and has many medicinal qualities, as well. It is an ancient plant, dating back to the Paleozoic era (600-375 million years ago) and is a descendent of huge trees that lived during that time! In fact, during early spring, when it first appears, it resembles baby pine trees, and for years, I thought it was that. It is a perennial from a creeping rhizome, so it often appears in large colonies.

Resembling baby pine trees makes for a very pretty plant, but on closer examination, it is prettier, still. Just below each set of whorled leaves that climb a green, sterile stalk, are dark etchings on the joints of the plant. When viewed with a hand lens, the dark markings are the shape of arrows, and each one is split in the middle, as though it was burst from within.

Its high levels of silica makes it an excellent abrasive, and one of its common names, ‘bottlebrush’, reveals one of its earlier uses. In addition, the sprigs of the plant were tied to the tails of horses, to help them ward off flies, hence the name, ‘horsetail’.

As stated, it is very rich in silicic acid and silicates; it is also abundant in flavinoids and phenolic acid. But most of the medicinal benefits are due to the high level of silica. It is used for a number of ailments, including cystitis; menopausal complaints such as hot flashes; bloating; and it is even a styptic, commonly used to stop nosebleeds. But for my money, its most exciting quality is that it helps to build strong bones, and according to widely respected herbalist, Susun Weed, the plant can even reverse osteoporosis. Horsetail also speeds the repair of damaged connective tissue, all the while improving its strength and elasticity.

In addition, when added to a bath, horsetail can help speed up the repair of broken bones, and sprains, or skin conditions such as eczema.

The parts of the plants that are used are the aerial parts, and it should be harvested in the first 4-6 weeks of its growth, as too much silica can cause urinary tract irritation.It likes damp ground, so it is commonly found near water. It should be carefully dried, and then the herb can be made into a tea (generally 1 tsp plant material to 1 cup of boiling water.) Steep covered for 20 minutes. Drink 1-2 cups per day.